Window lock types offer different levels of safety for your home’s windows, depending on their specifics and how you use them. Which one is the safest choice for you depends on which windows in your house and how frequently you use them.

Single-hung and double-hung windows require locks to prevent their sashes from sliding up and down on tracks in the frame. Stop locks, bar locks, track locks, locking pins, wedge stops – these all work well for these types of windows.

Deadbolt

Deadbolts are one of the most secure window locks. They are resistant to crowbars, jackhammers and other tools used for forcing them open, making them hard for burglars to duplicate and therefore harder for them to unlock.

These locks feature a hardened cylinder that makes it nearly impossible for anyone to pick or disassemble the lock, making them ideal for homeowners who want to protect their home from damage and theft. This feature can be especially beneficial in cases of break-ins.

However, there are still methods to break into a deadbolt lock, such as using crowbars or keys or knives. To protect yourself from such risks, ensure your door and frame have sufficient strength.

Additionally, ensure your strike plates are reinforced with 3-inch screws and fastened to the frame of your house. These two steps are essential in protecting your door from intruders.

Another option for securing your windows is using a chain lock. This type of lock is ideal for restricting how far the window can be opened and usually fastened to both sash and frame with screws that fit securely in place.

If you’re unsure how to choose the ideal window lock for your home, consulting with a professional is recommended. They can offer helpful advice and recommendations that guarantee you get the most from your investment.

Selecting the ideal lock for your window can seem like a daunting task, but it is an essential step in maintaining your safety and security. There are various types of window locks available and each offers various levels of protection.

When selecting the type of window for your home, it’s essential to take into account its type. Casement windows, for instance, require a specific lock that works best with them.

Some types of windows, such as double hung and sliding ones, may not be compatible with all locks. To ensure a secure fit and ease of installation, be sure to select a lock that fits the window properly.

Keyed Sash Locks

Keyed Sash Lock window locks are an effective way to bolster the security of your home. They work perfectly with double-hung windows and come in various finishes that can blend in with any decor. Furthermore, these locks require minimal installation effort and make it difficult for criminals to access your window easily.

These locks are made of die cast zinc and can be used on vertical single-hung and double-hung sliding windows, as well as horizontal sliding windows constructed from aluminum, wood or vinyl sash and frames. They feature a narrow keeper, alignment lugs and cam-action locking latch to guarantee the sash is securely fastened into place.

Prime-Line offers this heavy-duty lock, one of the leading suppliers for replacement parts for doors and windows. Crafted from die cast zinc with a white enamel finish, this lock will keep your property secure.

It can be installed on vertical single-hung or double-hung sliding windows, as well as horizontal sliding windows, and mounted either to the sash frame or sash itself. With its lock and keeper with 2-7/8 inch hole centers, this lock and keeper set is suitable for installation on sliding windows made of aluminum, wood or vinyl.

Installing them is simple, as they come in a range of finishes. They make an ideal choice for homeowners looking to secure their home against intruders since they are childproof and require a key to unlock the lock.

Sash windows are a common sight in America, often found on homes from the Victorian, Georgian and Regency periods. Sash windows differ from casement windows in that they feature two vertical sashes that move vertically up and down instead of the more common casement window which has hinges on either side for horizontal or vertical opening and outward movement.

Though sash windows may be visually appealing, they can also be an easy target for burglars due to their weight. Turning a sash from within without breaking it is much harder than turning one from outside – which also makes them vulnerable to break-ins with crowbars or other tools of destruction. That is why using window locks on your sash windows is recommended;

Ventilating Locks

Window lock types vary, depending on the style of window in your home and what level of security you require for your family. Some locks must be installed after installation while others are integrated into the frame sash itself.

Ventilating Locks are one of the most widely-used window locks. These locks prevent windows from opening completely, helping protect against falls and intruders. They’re often found in residential homes as well as hotels.

This type of lock is a straightforward device, consisting of a moveable pin that can be placed above the window to prevent it from opening fully. Once this pin has been taken out and pushed aside, however, the window can open fully again – perfect for bedrooms or other areas where you want to keep windows closed but still have the flexibility to open them if necessary.

It can also be used to prevent children from opening the window. It should be installed in second-floor windows that are easily reached by children and placed at a safe height for them to reach.

These are often installed in single and double hung windows. Kits come predrilled into the sash, and you simply insert lag screws through their recessed washers.

If you need a more secure option, commercial heavy-duty locks are your best bet. These have been certified by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) as offering superior protection.

Slide window locks can be installed onto the sash of a sliding window, but they require that it be screwed tightly to its track. This is an effective way of protecting against theft and should be combined with other security measures like a deadbolt or keyed sash locks.

Lag screws are another popular type of window lock that can be used on sliding and tilting windows. They’re typically installed in the bottom sash of double-hung windows to provide simple yet effective security against opening your windows.

Pin Locks

Pin locks are window locks that use pins to securely fit the lock onto the frame. They often go with single hung or double hung windows and can be an excellent addition to your home security.

Locks come in an array of colors and styles. Additionally, they vary in size and quality. If unsure which type to get, consult with a professional before making your purchase.

These windows locks tend to be pricier than other options, but they provide excellent security when your window is shut. Installed on the sash, they come with a key that allows you to lock/unlock it with ease.

In general, window locks with keyed entry are an ideal choice for homes with children or elderly residents. This type of lock is more durable and won’t damage your windows as quickly as other types.

Before installing any lock on your window, be sure that it is compatible with its type. This is especially critical if your casement or double hung window requires special consideration as they can be challenging to install.

For a less costly option, you can purchase a hitch pin lock. These typically made of carbon steel are easy to operate and can be found at most auto parts stores for between $20 and $40.

Another method to bypass a pin lock is using a bump key. This type of key is cut to an exact depth and then used to knock the pins into their shear line position in the lock.

This method is one of the most popular ways to bypass a pin tumbler lock. However, there are other approaches you can try as well.

You could also try using a comb pick, which looks like a comb and will move all pin stacks at once. Doing so will remove all obstructions from your shear line.

Other methods that can be used to bypass a pin tumbler lock include drilling, which is an advanced and dangerous process that requires specialized equipment and practice to master. Some more complex locks feature additional security components which deter drill attacks such as stainless steel ball-bearing in front of the stack or harder first pins designed to avoid drilling.